Pet Info & Tips

Cold Weather Safety for Pets

Keep all cats indoors. Cats kept indoors live longer and healthier lives than those that go outside. Outdoor cats have an average lifespan of 2 – 4 years while indoor cats live 14 – 16 years on average. Winter conditions pose a threat to your cat’s health beyond the diseases, cars, and wildlife that already endanger them.
Never let your dog off lease on snow or ice because dogs can easily lose their scent trail and get lost. Make sure your dog is always wearing ID tags, especially in winter months when more dogs are lost than any other season.
Wipe your dog’s legs and belly when they come indoors to remove any ice, road salt or antifreeze. Ice stuck between their paw pads can cause pain or bleeding.
Make sure your dog is completely dry after a bath before they are allowed outside. Never shave down a long-haired dog in the winter as their long fur keeps them warm and consider getting a coat for short-haired breeds.
Just as in summer months, don’t leave your pet alone in the car during winter weather. Extreme cold temperatures can be just as deadly as extreme heat.
Puppies are not as resistant to cold temperatures as adult so housebreaking may be more difficult in the winter months. Consider paper trainer your puppy if he is sensitive to the cold. Consider a dog’s age, breed and health when deciding how much time they should spend outside.
If your dog loves to play outside in the winter, increase his food and water supply because keeping warm requires a lot of energy. Make sure your dog gets plenty of protein in his diet to keep his coat thick and warm.
Avoid Antifreeze leaks and spills as it is a deadly poison. Make sure it is stored out of reach of your pets. Use antifreeze made with propylene glycol since it is not harmful if swallowed in small amounts.

Additional Tips for Pet Owners (.pdf format)

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Hot Weather Hazards: Garden Hazards

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